City auditor outlines office independence, audit priorities and invites public input

City Auditor Nathan Picker briefed the Tulsa Human Rights Commission on the office's duties, independence and planned priorities, saying the office will begin a new annual audit cycle on July 1 and is expanding resident access to suggest audits.

"Our mission is we provide accountability and build community trust by listening to residents and employees performing audits, reviews, consulting, and reporting," City Auditor Nathan Picker said, describing the office's mission, vision and values. He said the auditor is an elected position and "shall not be subject to item veto or reduction by the mayor," language he cited as preserving the office's independence and access to city records.

Picker outlined that the charter and ordinances authorize the office to examine city accounts and performance across departments, boards and commissions. He said the office historically does about 10 audits a year with roughly 12 staff positions, and that he is expanding the annual risk assessment process to accept input from residents via a…